FallenHero96 wrote:And according to the IOC - "We have today received strong written reassurances from the Russian government that everyone will be welcome at the games in Sochi regardless of their sexual orientation"

this isn't just about the Olympics though. what happens when a smaller athletic even takes place in Russia and gay athletes want to attend? I have a friend who's gay who just got back from winning a gold medal at the World Dragonboat Championships in Hungary. what happens in 2 years if they have the tournament somewhere in Russia? will she have to fear harassment from the Russian government?

it says In a statement to R-Sport, Mutko stated that, "No one is forbidding an athlete with non-traditional sexual orientation from coming to Sochi, but if he goes onto the street and starts propagandizing it, then of course he will be held accountable."

So, I don't know where you saw that he would prevent gay athletes from participating. Seems to me he is saying keep it private, which everyone should be doing anyways.

what is their definition of propagandizing it though? is it as simple as holding your partner's hand as you walk down the street?I don't feel that the Sochi Olympics need to be boycotted because it punishes the athlete. I am for awarding no more international competitions in Russia until they repeal these laws though.

it says In a statement to R-Sport, Mutko stated that, "No one is forbidding an athlete with non-traditional sexual orientation from coming to Sochi, but if he goes onto the street and starts propagandizing it, then of course he will be held accountable."

So, I don't know where you saw that he would prevent gay athletes from participating. Seems to me he is saying keep it private, which everyone should be doing anyways.

He initially stated and reiterated the statement twice, even after the IOC statement.

I've read it and have been reading the tweets of Slava Malamud and the other Russian hockey writer whose name escapes me now. What the Sports Minister is telling the Russian media and world media are 2 different things. Which is normal for politicians, talk out of both sides of their mouths.

What will happen is while athletes more than likely won't get touched, reporters and others will be harassed and/or arrested.

Only thing ive seen a out i any time it has been brought up is to avoid propaganda. First thought about it is it should t be an issue because no one should be making sexuality no matter which variety an issue.